Guest Op-Ed: Welcome Back to School Winthrop Students

By Terence Delehanty

Interim Town Manager/Police Chief Terence Delehanty welcomes back to all of the Winthrop students! Wishing you all a great year!
Below are some back to School Safety tips from the Winthrop Police Department. Walking is fun, but you need to be safe while doing it. Follow these tips to make sure you get to and from school without any problems.

Walk together! Younger children should always walk with an adult. Tell you parents that walking is great exercise and a nice way to spend time together. If your parents say that you can walk to school on your own, remember these tips:

Walk with a friend when possible. Ask your parents to help you pick a safe route to school; one that avoids dangers. Stick to the route you picked with your parents. Don’t let friends talk you into shortcuts that are more.

When you are near the street, don’t push, shove, or chase each other. Never hitchhike or take rides from people not arranged by your parents.

Talk to your parents and teacher about any bullying that may happen during your walk.

Remember, drivers may not be able to see you well. Always wear bright-colored clothes and if it is dark or hard to see, carry flashlights or wear reflective gear.

When crossing the street remember to watch out for cars and trucks at every driveway and intersection on your walk to school.

Look for drivers in parked cars. They may be getting ready to move.

Cross the street safely! Stop at the curb or edge of the street. Look for traffic. Look left, right, left and behind you and in front of you for traffic. Wait until no traffic is coming and begin crossing. Keep looking for traffic until you have finished crossing. Walk, don’t run across the street. Obey traffic signs, signals and adult school crossing guards

Terence Delehanty is the Police Chief of the Winthrop Police Department, as well as, the interim Town Manager.